MIAMI-DADE COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF …

1 MIAMI-DADE COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF REGULATORY AND ECONOMIC RESOURCES IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT HURRICANE DAMAGE TO FENCES Is a permit required to repair or replace my fence ? Yes, please be advised that a permit may be required to repair or replace your fence . A building permit is required to replace your wood or concrete fences. Repairs less than $1000 to wood/concrete residential fences (that are not utilized as a pool barrier) do not require a permit. Building permits are required for chain-linked fences on commercial properties or chain-link fences utilized as a pool safety barrier on residential properties. All other chain-link (residential non-pool barrier), picket, iron or other non-wind-resistant fences only require a zoning improvement permit (ZIP) when 50%or more of the fence is repaired or replaced (in the same location with the same height and material as the original fence ). Do I need a licensed contractor to repair or replace my fence ? Only licensed contractors or owner-builders may obtain a permit.

2 Contractors must be licensed by MIAMI-DADE COUNTY or the State of Florida to perform fencing work. Before securing the services of a contractor, you are encouraged to contact the MIAMI-DADE COUNTY Contractor Licensing Section at (786) 315-2880 or online at :1608/WWWSERV/ to ensure the contractor is licensed, insured and does not have complaints or violations on record. State Licensed Contractors can be verified by contacting the State of Florida DEPARTMENT of Business and Professional Regulation at (850) 487-1395. An owner-builder may obtain a fence permit and will be required to sign a form acknowledging his/her responsibilities as an owner-builder. Proof of property ownership will be required such as a warranty deed, closing statement or tax receipt. Please note owner-builders will be required to take an owner s quiz prior to permit issuance to demonstrate the appropriate knowledge of the Florida Building Code to perform the work. What am I required to submit in order to obtain a fence permit?

3 A permit application form (building or ZIP; depending on fence type) with required notarized signatures must be submitted. The property owner and licensed contractor s signatures are required (for owner-builders only property owner signature is required along with an Owner-Builder Instruction form). Proof of ownership such as warranty deed, closing statement or tax receipt (if applying as owner-builder or if the owner does not appear in public records). Addendum to fence Permit Application form completed and signed by both the property owner and contractor (property owner only for owner-builder permits). o If the fence is in a utility easement area, contact the Sunshine Network at 1-800-432-4770 to obtain a Ticker Number authorizing placement of the fence . Please allow four working days after the call before submitting the permit application. Ticket Number must be included in the above-mentioned fence Addendum form. For properties with a Home Owner s Association such as a condominium or townhouse, a letter of from the association approving the fence installation is required as well as letters from adjacent property owners.

4 Site Plan or Survey indicating where the fence will be located on the property and including length, height and distance to property line. If you do not have a copy of a Site Plan or Survey you may be able to obtain a copy by visiting the Microfilm Section at the Permitting and Inspection Center located at 11805 SW 26th Street. To make an appointment, contact the Microfilm Section at (786) 315-2340 or online at A MIAMI-DADE COUNTY typical wood/chain-link or masonry fence detail form. OR A fence drawing signed and sealed by a design professional showing foundation, structural members, connections and calculations required. How much does a fence permit cost? The minimum fee for a fence permit is $130 and is based upon linear footage and the type of fence being constructed. An upfront fee is required to be paid upon applying for the permit (approximately $ ) and will be credited toward the final permit fee. Forms of payment accepted are credit card, cash, or check. How long does it take to obtain a fence permit?

5 Typically, fence permits are issued within 1-2 business days if all required information is correct and according to Code. Where do I apply for a fence permit and find all required forms? All forms and applications can be obtained at the Permitting and Inspection Center located at 11805 SW 26th Street, Monday through Friday, from 7:30 4:00 Additional information and permit application forms can be found online at Please note, these are the basic guidelines for obtaining a fence permit. If you have questions or need further information, call the Permitting and Inspection Center at (786) 315-2100.